{Seven Mile Island – June 1985}
Later that morning, Dylan received another call from Max Thomas. “Hi, Dylan, I wanted to let you know that I’m finishing up the work on the bridge today. I’ll definitely stop by tomorrow morning to inspect the bulkhead and to write a repair estimate.”
While Dylan was a little disappointed by the delay, wanting the damages fixed as soon as possible, he responded, “No problem, Max. Thanks for the call. I know that everyone on Seven Mile Island appreciates your efforts to quickly repair the bridge. Be safe, and I’ll see you tomorrow."
When the boys awoke, Grandma reminded them that there was another volleyball tournament on the beach at eleven o’clock. “If you two hurry up, you can grab something to eat and still make it in time to play.”
As Wayne and Johnny rushed to change into their favorite nylon jogging shorts and tank tops, Liz called out, “Boys, remember to use suntan lotion. I don’t want you getting burned in the hot sun!”
While darting out the front door, Johnny turned to Wayne and said, “Ya know, she was right about using the bug spray for boating. I guess we should grab the suntan lotion, too.”
Wayne then yelled back, “OK, Mom. We love you. See you later.”
Amazingly, during their rush to get to the volleyball tournament, the boys forgot all about their recent discovery!
When the boys got to the beach, they learned that they were not selected as partners for the day’s tournament. Instead, they were assigned to play on different teams. While they weren’t happy to be separated, they still believed that one of them could win a share of the grand prize gift certificate.
Unfortunately, this was not to be. At the conclusion of the tournament, Wayne’s team placed second. Instead of winning a gift certificate, Wayne and his partner each received a flavored water ice treat. Johnny’s team came in fourth place, which did not qualify for any awards.
Afterward, the boys were a little dejected about the outcome. Wayne sighed. “I wish we could have been on the same team again. We would have easily won.”
Johnny more keenly rationalized, “Well, at least you won this huge water ice. Mmm, this is great!”
Fortunately, the boys were given two spoons, allowing them to share the thirst-quenching treat as they walked back to their grandparents’ house.
After Lisa finally woke up, Christine and Elizabeth told her that they were planning to have a fun outdoor “Luau Feast” that evening. Secretly, the two women hoped that this would help to lift Lisa’s spirits, given the previous night’s traumatic experience.
“Honey, do us a favor and pick out some music to play at tonight’s party,” said Liz to her daughter.
After looking through her grandparents’ record collection in the family room, Lisa selected the Elvis Presley soundtrack album Blue Hawaii. She had recently watched the movie on television and thought that the upbeat tropical songs would be perfect for the luau.
Lisa then went outside and walked over to her dad’s Jeep. She climbed inside and grabbed his new cassette tape called Jimmy Buffet’s Greatest Hits. After returning inside, Lisa described her music selections to her mom and grandmother. Liz said, “Those are perfect choices, Lisa. I know that everyone will enjoy the music.”
A short time later, the ladies drove to Sharp’s Fruits & Vegetables to pick up fresh produce and large shrimp. Frank was very charming as he spoke to the women about their luau dinner plans. Coincidentally, as they were paying for their selections, Liz noticed a bandage on Frank’s right wrist. When Frank saw her looking, he quickly pulled his arm back. Then he politely smiled and said, “Thanks for your business, ladies. Have fun tonight.”
As they walked back to the car, Grandma turned to Liz and said, “Frank is always such a gentleman. And his prices are very reasonable!”
On the drive home, the three women all sat silently. Liz pondered over the previous evening’s unexpected event. She was truly frustrated that the police had not called with answers as to why her daughter was kidnapped. It simply made no sense. Liz was also annoyed with herself for having suspicious thoughts after she saw the small bandage on Frank Sharp’s wrist. She thought, “He’s just a nice old man. And he’s my parents’ friend! Come on, Liz, pull yourself together.”